TURNER ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO OBSERVE ‘SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY’

TRENTON – In anticipation of the holiday shopping season,Senator Shirley K. Turner is urging residents to observe “Small Business Saturday” this weekend and to shop local throughout the holiday season.

Small Business Saturday will be held this Saturday, November 25. It is promoted by small businesses across the country to encourage residents to purchase holiday gifts at smaller stores and businesses in their communities the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

“Small businesses are so vital to not just the economy but to a community. The value small businesses bring to a downtown or town square is priceless, while the experience they provide to the consumer cannot be matched by any big name retailer or by online shopping,” said Senator Turner (D-Hunterdon/Mercer). “When you support a small business you are supporting a dream of an entrepreneur, and of someone who took a chance with the hopes of being their own boss, while contributing to a community. Let’s do our part to show that their effort and hard work is appreciated this holiday season.”

According to a survey released by the National Retail Federation, an estimated 164 million people are planning to shop or considering shopping during Thanksgiving weekend. This year’s survey factored in Cyber Monday in addition to Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. The survey went on to say that a substantial 43 percent are expected to shop on Saturday (71 million), with 76 percent saying they will do so specifically to support Small Business Saturday.

“The dedication small business have to the community is extraordinary; as customers, we should show our appreciation and gratitude. This season, we can do our part to support the sustainability of businesses and jobs in New Jersey by patronizing the businesses operating on ‘Main Street’ and in our downtowns,” Turner said.